Located in the centre of Queenstown , the Queenstown Hill Time Walk, developed to mark the Millennium in 2000, has spectacular views of Queenstown and surrounding mountains.
Time: 3 hr return
Getting there: Access track from Belfast Street on Queenstown Hill.
The 500m climb through pine forest to the summit of Te Tapu-Nui (mountain of intense sacredness) is well rewarded by the outstanding 360 degree views of Queenstown.
The start of the walk is marked by a beautiful wrought iron gate depicting symbols of the local area. En route interpretation panels provide a fascinating insight into the history and development of Queenstown.
The most common tree on this walk is the Douglas fir. Rowan, macrocarpa, eucalyptus and larch trees are also found while native plant species such as turpentine scrub, hard fern, matagouri, festuca tussock, manuka, fuchsia, dracophyllum (grass tree) and coprosma are common.
Close to the top of the walk is a mountain tarn and above it the Basket of Dreams - a metal sculpture created by New Zealand artist Caroline Robinson. Relax in the basket and take in the views of the Remarkables Range, upper Kawarau River, Cecil Peak, Frankton and the south arms of Lake Wakatipu and Queenstown Bay.
Note: Parts of the track cross private land. Please respect the landowner’s rights and keep to the formed track to avoid stock disturbance and farm hazards. Definitely no dogs are allowed on this trail.
Located right in town, this walk offers spectacular views of Queenstown and surrounding mountains. This walk crosses lease land. Landowner’s property is to be respected at all times
Trail notes:
Time: 3 hr return
Getting there: This track starts and ends on Belfast Street in Queenstown.
Description The 500-metre climb through pine forest to the summit of Te Tapu-nui (mountain of intense sacredness) is well rewarded by the views.
The most common tree on this walk is the Douglas fir. Rowan, macrocarpa, eucalyptus and larch also abound on the hill. If you see a wilding pine seedling – pull it out. Take care that you identify it correctly and make sure it is not a native! Native plant species such as turpentine scrub (Dracophyllum), Pentachondra pumilia, hard fern, matagouri, festuca tussock, manuka, fuchsia and coprosma’s are also common.
Rock tors provide ideal seats from which to admire an excellent 360-degree panorama of the Remarkables Range, upper Kawarau River, Cecil Peak, the Frankton and South Arms of the Lake and Queenstown Bay (Tahuna). A small tarn with a few bog pine can be found in this open area.
Note: Parts of the track cross private land. Please respect the landowner’s rights and keep to the formed track to avoid stock disturbance and farm hazards.
